Stom  i^t  feifitari?  of 
^ofeefior  TTiffiam  differ  ^<Kxio%  ©,©„  fej 

to  f  9e  feifimrt?  ot 
(ptincefon  C^eofogicaf  ^eminarg 


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SO 


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'•^a!^v|. 


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r 


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y 

CATECHISM 


ON  THE 


GOVERNMENT  AND   DISCIPLINE 


OF 


SThe  J^rtistgterian  (EUurcfi- 


"  Show  them  the  form  of  the  house,  and  the  fashion  thereof  and 
l-e  goings-out  thereof,  and  the  comingsin  thereof,  and  all  the 
Jorms  thereof,  and  all  the  ordinances  thereof,  and  all  the  forms 
thereof,  and  all  the  laws  thereof;  and  write  it  in  their  sight,  that 
they  may  keep  the  whole  form  thereof,  and  all  the  ordinances 
thereof  and  do  them." — Ezekiel  xliii.  11. 


"oTFSiSS? 


REVISED    FOR    THE    PRESBYTERIAN    BOyRm*OF   PUBLICATION. 


^^ffeicALiSiS 


PHILAnELPHIA: 
PRESBYTERIAN  BOARD  OF  PUBLICATION. 


Entered  according  to  the  Act  of  Congress,  in  the  yeai 

1849,  by 

A.  W.  MITCHELL,  M.  D., 

in  the  Office  of  the  Clerk  of  the  District  Court  for  the 
Eastern  District  of  Pennsylvania. 


stereotyped  by 

S.  DOUGLAS  WYETH, 

No.  7  Pear  St.,  Philadelphia. 


-t^A—' 


PREFACE. 


The  Compilers  of  this  Catechism  do  not  publish 
it  in  an  unkind  spirit  towards  Christians  of  other 
denominations,  nor  with  the  view  of  provoking 
controversy,  but  for  the  following  reasons : — 

1.  .In  these  days  of  conflicting  opinions  they 
deem  it  a  matter  of  essential  importance  to  the 
Presbyterian  Church,  that  her  members,  and  espe- 
cially the  rising  generation,  be  thoroughly  in- 
structed in  their  peculiar  and  distinguishing  prin- 
ciples. 

2.  They  regard  as  unscriptural,  and  therefore 
erroneous^  the  opinions  which  many  are  disposed 
to  advocate, — that  no  particular  form  of  Church 
government  and  discipline  is  of  Divine  institution, 
and  that  Churches  may  adopt  whatever  form  seems 
to  them  most  expedient. 

3.  They  believe  that  the  glory  of  Christ,  the 


111 


IV  PREFACE. 

extension  of  his  kingdom,  and  the  salvation  of 
souls,  are  infinitely  connected  with  the  faithful 
administration  of  his  ordinances  and  laws,  accord- 
ing to  the  form  of  government  which  he  has  in- 
«;tituted  in  his  word. 

4.  And  that^  they  are  persuaded,  is  the  Presby- 
terian form. 


A  CATECHISM,  &a 

CHAPTER  I. 

GOVERNMENT    OF    THE    CHURCH. 

Question  1.  What  is  meant  by  the  Church 
of  Christ  ? 

Answer.  Either  the  whole  body  of  his  re- 
deemed people,  or  the  whole  body  of  profess- 
ing Christians  on  earth,  and  their  children. 

Christ  also  loved  the  Church,  and  gave  himself 
for  it,  that  he  might  present  it  to  himself  a  glori- 
ous Church.     Eph.  v.  25,  27. 

For  the  promise  is  unto  you,  and  to  your  chil- 
dren. And  the  Lord  added  to  the  Church  daily 
such  as  should  be  saved.     Acts  ii.  39,  47. 

Q.  2.  How  is  the  Chnrch,  in  this  general 
sense,  usually  distinguished  ? 

A.  Into  the  invisible  and  the  visible  Church : 
the  former,  comprising  the  whole  body  of 
God's  saints  in  heaven  and  on  earth  : 

The  general  assembly  of  the' first-born,  whose 
names  are  written  in  heaven.     Heb.  xii.  23. 

and  the  latter,  the  whole  body  of  those  who 
make  an  open  profession  of  the  truth  as  it  is 
in  Jesus. 

1*  5 


6  GOVERNMENT    AND    DISCIPLINE 

To  the  angel  of  the  Church  which  is  in  Perga- 
mos,  write — thou  holdest  fast  my  name,  and  hast 
not  denied  my  faith — but  thou  hast  there  them  that 
hold  the  doctrine  of  Balaam — which  thing  I  hate. 
Rev.  ii.  12—15. 

Q.  3.  Is  the  Greek  word  {ecclesia)  trans- 
lated Church  in  the  Scriptures,  confined  to 
these  two  meanings  ? 

A.  No.  It  is  used  in  various  senses.  It 
signifies, — 

(1.)  Any  general  assembly,  or  congrega- 
tion of  people. 

For  the  assembly  {ecclesia)  was  confused.  Acts 
xix.  32. 

(2.)  An  assembled  council,  either  of  civil 
judges, 

*  It  shall  be  determined  in  a  lawful  assembly,  (ec- 
clesia.)    Acts  xix.  39. 

or  of  ecclesiastical  rulers. 

Tell  it  unto  the  Church,  &c.  (ecclesia.)  Matt, 
xviii.  17. 

The  Church  consists  of  rulers  and  ruled, 
Heb.  xiii.  17.  And  according  to  the  order 
of  all  well-regulated  societies,  complaints  are 
laid  before  the  rulers.  It  was  so  in  the  syna- 
gogues of  the  Jewish  Church  ;  and,  therefore, 
as  spoken  by  our  Lord,  and  understood  by 
his  disciples,  the  word  Church  in  this  verse 
will  mean  the  rulers. 

(3.)  Any  particular  congregation  of  Chris- 
tians. 

And  the  Church  which  is  in  his  house.  Col.  iv.  15. 


OF    THE    PRESBYTERIAN    CHURCH.  7 

(4.)  Several  congregations  or  churches  con- 
sidered as  one  body  under  the  same  general 
judicature. 

Unto  the  church  of  God  which  is  at  Corinth, 
1  Cor.  i.  2 ;  compared  with  xiv.  34,  Let  your  wo- 
men keep  silence  in  the  churches.  Also,  The 
Church  which  was  at  Jerusalem,  Acts  viii.  1,  com- 
pared with  xxi.  20,  How  many  thousands,  (or,  as 
in  the  original,)  myriads.  A  myriad  is  ten  thou- 
sand. Many  myriads  must  have  made  many  con- 
gregations in  Jerusalem, — all  called  the  Church, 
under  the  jurisdiction  of  the  apostles  and  elders, 
Acts  XV.  6,  and  xvi.  4. 

Q.  4.  Is  it  a  matter  of  indifference  to  what 
Church  we  belong  ? 

A.  No.  It  is  our  duty  to  join  and  adhere 
to  that  Church  which  is  most  agreeable  to  the 
Holy  Scriptures  in  its  doctrines,  constitutions, 
forms,  and  discipline. 

Try  the  spirits  whether  they  are  of  God.  I 
John  iv.  1. 

Prove  all  things ;  hold  fast  that  which  is  good. 
1  Thess.  V.  21. 

Q.  5.  Has  the  Christian  Church,  as  a  visi- 
ble society,  a  form  of  government  peculiar 
to  itself? 

A.  Yes.  It  is  a  kingdom  having  laws  en- 
joined by  Christ,  and  its  members  consist  of 
the  rulers  and  the  ruled. 

My  kingdom  is  not  of  this  world,  &c.  John 
xviii.  36. 

Obey  them  that  have  the  rule  over  you,  and 
submit  yourselves,  for  they  watch  for  your  souls. 
Heb.  xiii.  17. 


O  GOVERNMENT    AND    DISCIPLINE 

Q.  6.  Where  do  we  find  the   ordinances 
and  laws  by  which  it  is  governed  ? 
A.  In  the  word  of  God  alone. 

To  the  law  and  to  the  testimony  ;  if  they  speak 
not  according  to  this  word,  it  is  because  there  is  no 
light  in  them.     Isa.  viii.  20. 

If  any  man  shall  add  to  these  things,  God  shall 
add  unto  him  the  plagues  that  are  written  in  this 
book.     Rev.  xxii.  18. 

Q.  7.  What  is  the  form  of  Church  govern- 
ment which  is  founded  on  and  most  agreea- 
ble to  the  word  of  God  ? 

A.  That  which  is  called  the  Presbyterian 
form.  It  is  so  called  from  the  word  Pres- 
byter, signifying  Elder,  which  is  the  usual 
scriptural  name  for  the  rulers  of  the  Church. 

Q.  8.  What  are  the  general  and  leading 
principles  of  this  form  of  Church  govern- 
ment ? 

A.  The  supreme  Headship  of  the  Lord 
Jesus  Christ ;  the  official  equality  of  its  Min- 
isters ;  the  distinct  office  of  Ruling  Elder ; 
with  the  ministerial  authority,  and  judicial 
subordination  of  Church  courts. 
>  Q.  9.  What  is  meant  by  the  supreme  Head- 
ship of  Christ  ? 

A.  That  He,  and  He  alone,  is  the  King 
and  Head  of  the  Church,  and  that  no  other 
person  or  persons  have  any  authority  to  de- 
cree rites  and  ceremonies,  or  institute  offices 
in  the  Church. 

Yet  have  I  set  my  King  upon  my  holy  hill  of 
Zion.     Psa.  ii.  6. 


OF    THE    PRESBYTERIAN    CHURCH.  9 

Neither  as  being  lords  over  God's  heritage,  but 
being  ensamples  to  the  flock.     1  Pet.  v.  3. 

Even  as  Christ  is  the  head  of  the  Church. 
Eph.  V.  23. 

Teaching  them  to  observe  all  things  whatsoever 
I  have  commanded  you.     Matt,  xxviii.  20. 

Q.  10.  How  many  kinds  of  office-bearers 
did  Christ  appoint  in  his  Church  ? 

A.  Two  kinds — extraordinary  and  ordi- 
nary officers. 

And  he  gave  some  apostles,  and  some  prophets, 
and  some  evangelists,  and  some  pastors  and  teach- 
ers.    Eph.  iv.  11. 

Q.  11.  What  were  the  extraordinary  ? 

A.  Persons  endowed  with  supernatural 
gifts,  and  extraordinary  authority ;  as  apos- 
tles, evangelists,  prophets. 

Q.  12.  For  what  purpose  were  they  ap- 
pointed ? 

A.  To  make  known  the  will  of  Christ,  set- 
tle the  constitution  of  the  Church  agreeably 
thereto,  and  commit  the  administration  of  it 
to  ordinary  and  permanent  officers. 

For  this  cause  I  left  thee  in  Crete,  that  thou 
shouldest  set  in  order  the  thin2;s  that  are  wantincr. 
Tit.  i.  5. 

And  the  things  that  thou  hast  heard  of  me  among 
many  witnesses,  the  same  commit  thou  to  faith- 
ful men,  who  shall  be  able  to  teach  others  also.  2 
Tim.  ii.  2. 

Q.  13.  Had  they  any  successors  as  extra- 
ordinary officers  ? 

A.  No.     We  do  not  read  of  any  having 


10  GOVERNMENT    AND    DISCIPLINE 

been  appointed  or  ordained  to  succeed  them 
in  their  higher  office  as  apostles,  evangehsts, 
or  prophets. 

And  when  ihey  had  ordained  them  elckrs  in 
every  church.     Acts  xiv.  23. 

Q.  14.  What  are  the  ordinary  Church-offi- 
cers appointed  by  Christ  ? 

A.  Presbyters  or  elders,  (called  also  bishops 
or  overseers,)  and  deacons. 

And  from  Miletus  he  sent  to  Ephesus,  and  called 
the  elders  of  the  Church.     Acts  xx.  17. 

To  all  the  saints  in  Christ  Jesus  at  Philippi,  with 
the  bishops  and  deacons.     Philip,  i.  1. 

Q.  15.  What  is  meant  by  the  pastors  of  the 
Church  ? 

A.  The  presbyters  or  elders,  who  teach  as 
well  as  rule. 

Q.  16.  Are  any  of  these  possessed  of  supe- 
rior rank  and  authority  in  the  Church  above 
the  others  ? 

A.  No.  They  are  all  of  the  same  order 
and  of  equal  authority. 

Q.  17.  Are  not  bishops  an  order  of  minis- 
ters distinct  from  and  superior  to  presbyters 
or  elders  ? 

A.  They  are  not.  Bishop  is  only  another 
name  for  the  presbyter  or  elder. 

Q.  IS.  How  does  this  appear  ? 

A.  (1.)  Bishops  are  not  called  in  any  part 
of  the  New  Testament  by  any  peculiar  title 
to  distinguish  them  from  presbyters — none 
are  constituted  prelates,  or  lords  over  God's 
heritage ;    but   on   the   contrary,   bishop   or 


OF    THE    PRESBYTERIAN    CHURCH.  11 

Overseer,  and  presbyter  or  elder,  are  applied 
to  the  same  persons.  Thus  in  Acts  xx.  17, 
those  are  called  "  elders,"  who  are  afterwards 
in  the  28th  verse  'called  "  overseers,"  that  is 
bishops ;  as  the  Greek  word  episcojjoi  de- 
notes. 

(2.)  No  where  in  Scripture  are  there  im- 
posed on  bishops  duties  or  powers  distinct 
from  those  of  presbyters ;  no  where  are  their 
qualifications  stated  to  be  different.  Thus 
the  apostle  reminds  Titus, 

For  this  cause  left  I  thee  in  Crete,  that  thou 
shouldest  ordain  elders  in  every  city.     Tit.  i.  5. 

In  the  next  verse  he  specifies  their  qualifi- 
cations as  elders ;  and  in  the  7th  verse,  in 
enumerating  these  qualifications,  he  says,  a 
bishop  must  be  bla7neless,  &c. 

(3.)  While  the  two  titles  are  thus  applied 
to  the  very  same  persons — presbyter  referring 
to  the  rank,  bishop  to  the  duties  of  both — 
these  persons  are  equal  in  all  respects  ;  the 
only  material  difference  that  is  discoverable 
being,  that  a  higher  degree  of  honour  is  to 
be  conceded  to  those  among  them,  who  teach 
as  well  as  rule. 

Let  the  elders  that  rule  well  be  counted  worthy 
of  double  honour,  especially  they  who  labour  in 
the  word  and  doctrine.  1  Tim.  v.  17.  See  also 
1  Cor.  xii.  28.       - 

(4.)  All  pastors  derive  their  office  and  au- 
thority from  Christ,  by  the  same  commission, 
and  in  the  same  words. 

And  he  said  unto  them,  go  ye  into  all  the  world, 


12  GOVERNMENT    AND    DISCIPLINE 

and  preach  the  gospel  to  every  creature.     Mark 
xvi.  15. 

(5.)  Since,  then,  all  those  who  are  called 
presbyters,  are  also  called  bishops;  and  those 
who  are  addressed  as  bishops,  are  also  ad- 
dressed as  presbyters ;  since  the  same  rank, 
powers,  qualifications,  and  duties,  are  con- 
nected with  both  of  these  designations,  it  is 
manifest  that  they  are  not  separate  classes  or 
orders,  but  one  and  the  same.  Therefore  the 
presbyter  is  the  only  scriptural  bishop. 

Q.  1 9.  What  sort  of  officers  were  Timothy 
and  Titus  ? 

A.  They  were  extraordinary  and  itinerant 
officers. 

Do  the  work  of  an  evangelist.  Titus  (is  de- 
parted) unto  Dalmatia.     2  Tim.  iv.  5,  10. 

Titus,  he  is  my  partner  and  fellow-helper  con- 
cerning you.     2  Cor.  viii.  23. 

I  desired  Titus,  and  with  him  I  sent  a  brother. 
2  Cor.  xii.  18. 

Q.  20.  Does  the  word  angel,  as  used  in 
reference  to  the  seven  churches  of  Asia,  in 
Revelations,  designate  an  officer  superior  to 
the  presbyter  ? 

A.  The  word  signifies  merely  a  messenger, 
and  may  be  applied  to  the  teaching  elder,  or 
it  may  be  taken  to  designate  the  moderator 
of  the  presbytery  as  the  organ  of  communi- 
cation ;  or  it  may  signify  the  pastors  of  the 
churches  in  a  collective  capacity. 

Some  of  YOU,  that  ye,  &c.  ;  among  you.  Rev. 
ii.  8,  10,  13, 


OP  THE  PRESBYTERIAN  CHURCH.     13 

Q.  21.  What  is  required  in  a  man,  to  war- 
rant iiis  being  ordained  to  the  ministry  ? 

A.  He  should  be  renewed  by  the  Holy 
Ghost ;  persuaded  in  his  own  mind  that  he 
is  called  to  the  work  of  the  ministry  ;  resolved 
to  endure  hardship  as  a  soldier  of  Christ ; 
sound  in  the  faith  ;  blameless  and  holy  in  the 
habits  of  his  life  ;  possess  such  measure  of 
knowledge,  human  and  divine,  as  may  quahfy 
him  to  answer  the  gainsayer;  and  such  gifts 
of  utterance  as  may  enable  him  to  edify  the 
church. 

Hold  fast  the  form  of  sound  words  which  thou 
hast  heard  of  me  in  faith  and  love.    2  Tim.  ii.  13. 

And  the  things  that  thou  hast  heard  of  me,  the 
same  commit  Ihou  to  faithful  men,  who  shall  be 
able  to  teach  others  also.     2  Tim.  ii.  2. 

For  a  bishop  must  be  blameless,  as  the  steward 
of  God,  sober,  just,  holy.     Tit.  i.  7. 

Therefore  every  scribe  which  is  instructed  unto 
the  kingdom  of  heaven,  is  like  unto  a  man  that  is 
an  householder,  which  bringeth  out  of  his  treasure 
things  new  and  old.  Matt.  xiii.  52. 

Q.  22.  Who  has  authority  to  ordain  to 
offices  in  the  Church  ? 

A.  A  presbytery  or  plurality  of  elders. 

With  the  laying  on  of  the  hands  of  the  presby- 
tery.    1  Tim.  iv.  14. 

Whom  they  set  before  the  apostles,  and  when 
they  had  prayed,  they  laid  their  hands  on  them. 
Acts  vi.  6. 

Q.  23.  Is  there  any  other  permanent  office 
in  the  Church  but  that  of  teaching  ? 

2 


14  GOVERNMENT    AND    DISCIPLINE 

A.  There  is  also  the  office  of  ruling. 

Salute  all  them  that  have  the  rule  over  you. 
Heb.  xiii.  24. 

Q.  24.  To  whom  does  it  belong  to  exercise 
this  office  ? 

A.  To  the  presbyters  or  elders. 

And  the  apostles  and  elders  came  together  for  to 
consider  the  matter.     Acts  xv.  6. 

They  deUvered  them  the  decrees  for  to  keep 
which  were  ordained  of  the  apostles  and  elders. 
\cts  xvi.  4. 

The  elders  that  rule  well.     1  Tim.  v.  17. 

Q.  25.  How  many  classes  of  Elders  are 
there  ? 

A.  Two — the  Teaching  Elder,  and  the 
Ruling  Elder. 

Let  the  Elders  that  rule  well  be  counted  worthy 
of  double  honour,  especially  they  who  labour  in 
the  word  and  doctrine.     1  Tim.  v.  17. 

Teachers,  helps,  governments.     1  Cor.  xii.  28. 

Q.  26.  Are  these  to  be  regarded  as  distinct 
orders  of  office-bearers,  possessing  different 
degrees  of  authority  ? 

A.  No.  They  are  to  be  regarded  as  occu- 
pying different  departments  of  the  same  gene- 
ral office,  and  of  equal  authority,  as  rulers^ 
of  the  Church. 

Q.  27.  Why  are  they  thus  distinguished  ? 

A.  Because  the  one  class  is  ordained  not 
only  to  rule,  but  also  to  teach,  and  the  other 
to  rule,  as  their  distinctive  duty. 

Q.  28.  What  is  the  general  duty  of  the 
Ruling  Elders  ? 


OF    THE    PRESBYTERIAN    CHURCH.  15 

A.  To  act  along  with  the  Pastor,  as  ^  helps 
and  governments/  in  overseeing  the  Church, 
in  exercising  discipline  and  rule,  and  visiting 
the  families  and  sick  members  for  exhortation 
and  prayer. 

The  Elders  which  are  among  you  I  exhort,  who 
am  also  an  Elder — Feed  the  flock  of  God  which 
is  among  you,  taking  the  oversight  thereof.  1  Pet. 
V.  1,2.  , 

Is  any  sick  among  you  ?  Let  him  call  for  the 
Elders  of  the  Church,  and  let  them  pray  over  him. 
James  v.  14. 

Q.  29.  Is  it  a  part  of  the  Deacon's  office  to 
teach  or  rule  in  the  Church  ? 

A.  No.  Deacons  are  not  spoken  of  any 
where  in  Scripture,  in  connexion  with  these 
duties. 

Q.  30.  For  what  duty  were  they  appointed  ? 

A.  To  manage  the  temporal  affairs  of  the 
Church,  and  especially  to  attend  to  the  wants 
of  the  poor,  in  order  that  the  apostles  or 
teachers  might  give  themselves  continually  to 
the  ministry  of  the  word,  Acts  vi.  1 — 4. 

Q.  31.  Did  not  Phihp,  who  was  a  Deacon, 
teach  and  baptize  ? 

A.  Philip  became  an  Evangelist,  and  as 
such,  had  authority  to  teach  and  baptize. 

And  we  entered  into  the  house  of  Philip  the 
Evangelist.     Acts  xxi.  8. 


Q.  32.  Have  the  members  of  Churches  the 
^ht  of  choosir 
office-bearers  ? 


right  of  choosing  their  own  Pastors  and  other 


16  GOVERNMENT    AND    DISCIPLINE 

A.  Yes.  Churches  have  this  privilege  in 
common  with  all  other  free  Societies. 

And  the  saying  pleased  the  whole  multitude,  and 
they  chose  Stephen.     Acts  vi.  6. 

Who  was  also  chosen  of  the  Churches  to  travel 
with  us  with  this  grace,  &c.     2  Cor.  viii.  19. 

Q.  33.  How  should  Christians  discharge 
this  duty  ? 

A.  In  a  spirit  of  meekness,  humility,  peace, 
and  prayer,  with  a  supreme  regard  to  the 
glory  of  Christ,  and  the  spiritual  interests  of 
the  Church,  without  partiality,  or  respect  of 
persons. 

Let  nothing  be  done  through  strife  or  vain- 
glory ;  but  in  lowliness  of  mind  let  each  esteem 
other  better  than  themselves.     Phil.  ii.  3. 

Whatsoever  ye  do,  do  all  to  the  glory  of  God, 
1  Cor.  X.  31. 


CHAPTER   n. 

THE     SUCCESSION    OP    MINISTERS,    AND    THE 
NOTION  OF  APOSTOLICAL  SUCCESS:^ON. 

Question  1.  Had  the  apostles  of  our  Lord 
Jesus  Christ  any  successors  in  their  office  ? 

Answer.  They  had :  not  however  as  apos- 
tles, for  none  could  be  an  apostle  except  such 
as  had  seen  the  Lord, — but  as  ministers,  in 
preaching  the  word  and  administering  the 


OF    THE    PRESBYTERIAN    CHURCH.  17 

Sacraments,  and  taking  the  oversight.  2  Tim. 
iii.  2.     Acts  xiv.  23. 

Q.  2.  As  distinct  from  Deacons,  what  are 
these  spiritual  office-bearers  called  ? 

A.  They  are  sometimes  called  Bishops, 
that  is,  overseers  of  the  flock — sometimes 
Presbyters,  which  means  elders.  They  are 
elders  by  station,  and  overseers  by  its  duties, 
but  they  are  of  one  order — not  two.  Acts 
XX.  17—28.     Tit.  i.  5—7. 

Q.  3.  How  were  they  ordained  or  set  apart 
to  their  office  ? 

A.  By  the  laying  on  of  the  hands  of  the 
Presbytery.     1  Tim.  iv.  14.     Acts  xiii.  1. 

Q.  4.  What  is  the  practice  of  those 
Churches  which  unscripturally  assert  that 
bishops  and  presbyters  are  two  separate 
orders  ? 

A.  Their  practice  is  to  set  apart  one  class 
of  men  by  what  they  call  consecration,  and 
another  by  simple  ordination. 

Q.  5.  Is  there  any  rule  or  example  in  the 
New  Testament  for  these  two  separate  modes 
of  setting  apart  ministers  to  their  office  ? 

A.  There  is  none. 

Q.  6.  Is  it  not  of  importance  that  there 
should  be  a  regular  succession  of  scripturally 
appointed  ministers  ? 

A.  Yes  ;  as  a  matter  of  order,  it  is  seemly 
in  the  Church  of  Christ,  but  not  essential  to 
the  salvation  of  souls. 

Q.  7.  Why  is  it  not  essential  ? 

A.  Because  a  broken  succession  can  never 
frustrate  the  efficacy  of  the  word  of  God,  and 

2* 


18  GOVERNMENT    AND    DISCIPLINE 

an  unbroken  succession  can  never  sanctify 
"  the  doctrines  of  devils." 

Q.  8.  Who  are  they  that  rest  all  efficacy 
and  salvation  on  what  they  call  Apostolical 
Succession — that  is,  a  derivation  of  their  min- 
isterial office  through  prelate-bishops  from 
the  hands  of  the  apostles  ? 

A.  The  Popish  Church,  and  a  large  party 
in  the  prelatic  Churches  of  England,  of  Ire- 
land, and  in  Scotland  and  America. 

Q.  9.  Seeing  these  impute  so  much  to  it, 
can  they  prove  from  history  that  such  a 
thing  as  unbroken  succession  exists  among 
them? 

A.  Their  assumption  requires  this  at  their 
hand  ;  but  though  they  affect  to  do  this,  yet 
they  cannot.  Their  pretended  catalogues 
are  spurious  or  defective :  for,  1st,  There  is 
no  good  evidence  that  the  apostle  Peter,  from 
whom  they  pretend  to  derive  their  succes- 
sion, was  bishop  of  Rome,  or  that  he  ever 
visited  that  city ;  2d,  There  is  no  good  evi- 
dence as  to  who  v/ere  the  chief  pastors  of  the 
church  there  for  the  first  two  or  three  gene- 
rations; and,  3d,  There  is  the  clearest  evi- 
dence which  history  can  afford,  that,  in  sub- 
sequent times,  the  succession  was  broken 
in  numerous  instances,  and  in  innumerable 
ways.  That  it  is  "  unbroken  "  is  a  popish 
fable. 

Q.  10.  Is  not  such  a  claim  still  farther  in- 
vahdated  on  protcstant  grounds  ? 

A.  Most  certainly  it  is;  for  if,  as  Protest- 
ants maintain,  the  Popish  Church  has  become 


OF    THE    PRESBYTERIAN    CHURCH.  19 

an  apostate  church,  its  office-bearers  have 
plainly  lost  their  Master's  commission,  and 
they  cannot  impart  it  to  others  :  or  if  they 
can  impart  it,  we  must  also  admit  that  they 
can  recall  it.  Now,  all  Protestant  bishops 
have  been  repeatedly  excommunicated  and 
deposed  by  the  Romish  Church  ;  how  then 
can  they  claim  succession  from  it  ?  There- 
fore, if  Protestant  clergy  teach  their  people 
that  all  legitimate  authority,  necessarily  and 
exclusively  accompanies  such  "succession," 
the  people  are,  on  this  principle,  clearly  bound 
to  leave  them,  and  return  to  the  authority  of 
Rome,  which  these  clergy,  on  the  one  hand, 
foolishly  acknowledge,  and,  on  the  other 
hand,  inconsistently  disobey. 

Q.  11.  Is  this  notion  of  unbroken  succes- 
sion objected  to  by  us,  because  we  are  unable 
to  advance  any  similar  claim  ? 

A.  No  :  but  because  we  regard  it  as  idle  and 
unscriptural.  The  apostle,  when  ground- 
less pretensions  were  to  be  met,  could  say, 
^'Whereinsoever  any  is  hold  {I speak  fool- 
ishly) I  am  hold  also.  Are  they  Hebrews  ? 
So  am  I.  Are  they  Israelites  ?  So  am  I. 
Are  they  the  seed  of  Abraham  ?  So  am  /. 
After  the  same  manner,  we  are  allowed  to 
say,  if  any  protestant  communions  may 
claim  such  a  succession,  the  Presbyterian 
Church  may. 

Q.  12.  How  so? 

A.  Seeing  that  at  the  Reformation,  her 
ministers  were  ordained  by  Popish  Bishops, 
and  seeing  that  all  her  ministers  are  them- 


20  GOVERNMENT    AND    DISCIPLINE 

selves  his/iopSy  as  before  shewn ;  the  likeli- 
liood  that  their  succession  would  be  after- 
wards broken,  is  less  than  it  is  in  a  church 
where  only  one  minister,  say  in  Jive  hundred, 
is  acknowledged  to  be  a  bishop,  with  power 
o(  transmitting  it.  In  times  of  confusion  it 
might  be  lost  among  Prelate-Bishops,  and 
yet  preserved  among  Presbyter  or  Parochial 
Bishops. 

Q.  13.  But  are  we  to  rest  or  to  glory  in 
this? 

A.  No,  certainly  :  we  are  to  look  for  proofs 
that  our  ministers  are  sent  of  God,  in  other 
things  than  in  this,  which  is  at  best  unprofit- 
able and  vain. 

Q.  14.  What  evils  arise  from  the  assertion, 
by  Protestant  clergy,  that  "  unbroken  succes- 
sion'' is  necessary  to  salvation,  and  from  their 
assumption  of  the  claim? 

A.  Great  evils  are  apt  to  arise.  It  goes  to 
unchurch  themselves;  because  when  what 
they  assume  and  pronounce  to  be  necessary 
to  constitute  a  church,  is  historically  dis- 
proved, they  by  consequence  pronounce  them- 
selves excluded  from  the  ministry,  and  their 
people  from  salvation.  It  tends  to  exalt  the 
authority  of  man  above  that  of  God  j  tradi- 
tion above  scripture  ;  points  that  are  inditler- 
ent  above  truths  that  are  essential.  It  fosters 
pride  among  the  clergy,  and  exasperates  dif- 
ferences among  Protestants.  It  strengthens 
Popery,  because  it  concedes  one  of  its  most 
arrogant  demands;  and  it  strengthens  infi- 
delity, because,  when  ministers  of  the  gospel 


OF    THE    PRESBYTERIAy    CHURCH.  21 

maintain  dogmas,  which,  on  being  slightly 
sifted,  are  fourjd  to  ha  so  foolish  and  fictitious 
as  this,  they  impair  their  own  credit  in  pro- 
claiming to  men  facts  and  doctrines  which 
are  founded  in  truth  and  necessary  to  sal- 
vation. 


CHAPTER  III. 

THE    CONSTITUTION    AND    JURISDICTION    OF 
CHURCH    COURTS. 

Question  1.  What  is  the  nature  and  ex- 
tent of  that  authority  which  Christ  has  given 
to  the  rulers  of  the  Church? 

Answer.  It  is  merely  ministerial  and  sub- 
ordinate. 

Not  for  that  we  have  dominion  over  your  faith, 
but  are  helpers  of  your  joy.     2  Cor.  i.  24. 

Q.  2.  What  is  meant  by  ministerial  au- 
'   thority  ? 

A.  It  is  authority,  as  ministers  or  servants 
of  Christ,  to  proclaim,  apply,  and  execute  his 
laws  for  promoting  the  order  and  spiritual 
edification  of  the  Church. 

Q.  3.  What  is  meant  by  subordinate  au- 
thority ? 

A.  It  is  the  subjection  of  the  inferior  to  the 
superior  Courts  of  the  Lord's  house — as  of 


22  GOVERNMENT    AND    DISCIPLINE 

Session  to  I^l'esbytery,  and  of  Presbytery  to 
Synod,  and  of  all  to  Christ. 

Q,  4.  How  is  this  rule  or  authority  exer- 
cised ? 

A.  By  the  Presbyters  or  Elders  assembled 
in  Session,  Presbytery,  Synod,  or  General 
Assembly. 

And  the  Apostles  and  Elders  came  together  for 
to  consider  of  this  matter.     Acts  xv.  6. 

Q.  5.  What  is  a  Church  Session  ? 

A.  It  is  the  minister  (who  teaches  and 
rules)  along  with  the  Ruling  Elders  of  any 
particular  congregation  met  together  as  a 
Church  Court.  The  Minister  acts  as  Mode- 
rator or  President ;  and  the  Court  thus  formed 
may  be  called  a  Congregational  Presbytery. 
This  court,  with  the  superior  judicatures,  is 
founded  on  the  model  of  the  more  ancient 
synagogue  courts,  for  purposes  of  govern- 
ment and  discipline. 

Thou  shall  provide  out  of  all  the  people  able 
men,  and  place  such  over  them  to  be  rulers.  Exo- 
dus xviii.  21. 

If  thy  brother  trespass  against  thee,  and  if  he 
neglect  to  hear  thee,  tell  it  to  the  church.  Matt, 
xviii.  15 — 17.     See  also  1  Cor.  v.  4,  13. 

Q.  6.  Who  are  subject  to  the  authority  of 
Session  ? 

A.  All  the  members  of  the  church  of  which 
it  has  the  oversight. 

Q.  7.  What  is  the  duty  of  each  church  or 
congregation  towards  the  Session  .'* 

A.  To  respect  and  uphold  that  authority 


OF    THE    PRESBYTERIAN    CHURCH.  23 

which  is  given  it  by  Christ ;  to  render  a  cheer- 
ful obedience  to  its  decisions  in  the  Lord ; 
and  cordially  co-operate  in  the  plans  of  use- 
fulness which  it  recommends. 

And  we  beseech  you,  brethren,  to  know  them 
which  labour  among  you,  and  are  over  you  in  the 
Lord,  and  admonish  you.  And  esteem  them  very 
highly  in  love,  for  their  work's  sake.  And  be  at 
peace  among  yourselves.     1  Thess.  v.  12,  13, 

Q.  8.  Of  what  does  a  Presbytery  consist  ? 

A.  Of  the  Ministers  of  a  convenient  dis- 
trict, with  a  Ruling  Elder  from  each  congre- 
gation. 

Q.  9.  What  is  the  extent  of  its  jurisdic- 
tion ? 

A.  It  extends  to  its  own  members,  and  to 
the  several  sessions  and  congregations  be- 
longing to  it.  It  is  a  Court  of  Appeal  from 
Sessions,  and  has  the  general  oversight  of  the 
congregations  under  its  care.  An  appeal  lies 
from  its  decision  to  the  Synod. 

Q.  10.  Of  what  does  a  Synod  consist? 

A.  It  consists  of  the  Ministers  of  three  or 
more  Presbyteries  with  a  Ruling  Elder  to  re- 
present each  Session.  In  some  branches  of 
the  Presbyterian  church  the  Synod  is  the  su- 
preme court  of  jurisdiction ;  but  in  other, 
more  numerous  and  extended  churches,  such 
as  those  of  Scotland,  of  Ireland,  and  of  the 
United  States,  there  is  also  a  General  Assem- 
bly, composed  of  a  specific  number  of  Minis- 
ters and  Ruling  Elders,  appointed  by  the 
Presbyteries. 

Q.  11.  Does  the  New  Testament  furnish 


24  GOVERNMENT    AND    DISCIPLINE 

any  model  of  Presbyterian  government  by 
such  Church  Courts  ? 

A.  It  does,  in  the  xv.  chapter  of  Acts. 

Q.  12.  How  does  the  xv.  chapter  of  Acts 
establish  that  form  of  church  government  ? 

A.  The  facts  therein  recorded  for  our  ex- 
ample, furnish  its  outhne  or  general  principles. 
In  the  church  at  Antioch,  a  question  was  dis- 
puted, affecting  the  faith  and  practice  of  all 
the  churches  of  Christ.  Ver.  1,  2 :  It  was 
referred  for  settlement,  to  an  assembly  to  be 
convened  at  Jerusalem.  Ver.  2  :  The  as- 
sembly consisted  of  the  rulers  of  the  church, 
but  was  open  to  the  people.  Ver.  6,  12 :  It 
acted  in  a  deliberative  capacity.  Ver.  7,  12, 
13:  It  decided,  not  by  direct  inspiration,  but 
by  discussion  and  consideration,  under  the 
ordinary  guidance  of  the  Holy  Ghost.  Ver. 
7,  22,  28  :  One  member  of  the  assembly  pro- 
posed a  resolution,  which  was  unanimously 
adopted  as  its  decision  on  the  question.  Ver. 
19,  22  :  The  decree  thus  enacted,  was  autho- 
ritative, and  extended  to  all  the  churches. 
Ver.  28 ;  and  xvi.  4 :  These  principles  are 
applied  in  government,  with  all  the  necessary 
and  expedient  details,  to  particular  congrega- 
tions, by  the  Session  ;  to  the  churches  of  a 
convenient  district,  by  the  Presbytery;  and 
10  the  whole  Church,  by  Synod,  or  General 
Assembly. 

Let  all  things  be  done  decently,  and  in  order. 
1  Cor.  xiv.  40. 


OF    THE    PRESBYTERIAN    CHURCH.  25 


CHAPTER  IV. 

DISCIPLINE    OF    THE    CHURCH. 

Question  1.  What  is  the  Scriptural  cha- 
racter of  a  Christian  church  ? 

Answer.  It  is  a  society  of  persons  sepa- 
rated from  the  rest  of  mankind  to  the  ser- 
vice of  God. 

They  are  not  of  the  world.     John  xvii.  16. 

Q.  2.  By  what  means  is  this  character  to 
be  preserved  ? 

A.  By  the  faithful  exercise  of  a  Scriptural 
discipline. 

Purge  out  therefore  the  old  leaven,  that  ye  may 
be  a  new  lump.     1  Cor.  v.  7.     (See  context.) 

Q.  3.  What  should  be  the  conduct  of  a 
Church  Court  in  exercising  discipline  ? 
A.  It  should  be,  1st,  Orderly. 

Let  all  things  be  done  decently,  and  in  order. 
1  Cor.  xiv.  40. 

2d.  Meek. 

Restore  such  an  one  m  the  spirit  of  meekness. 
Gal.  vi.  1. 

3d.  Solemn, 

If  any  man  speak,  let  him  speak  as  the  oracles 
of  God.     1  Pet.  iv.  11. 

4th.  Impartial. 


26  GOVERNMENT    AND    DISCIPLINE 

Doing  nothing  by  partiality.     1  Tim.  v.  21. 

Q.  4.  When  is  a  person  to  be  regarded  as 
making  a  credible  profession  of  faith  in 
Christ,  and  to  be  admitted  to  the  Commu- 
nion ? 

A.  Tiiat  man  is  to  be  viewed  as  making  a 
credible  profession  of  religion,  who  manifests 
an  acquaintance  with  the  leading  doctrines 
of  the  gospel,  who  declares  himself  a  believer 
in  these  doctrines,  who  professes  that,  so  far  as 
he  can  judge,  his  heart  has  been  renewed  by 
the  Spirit  of  God,  and  who  maintains  a  con- 
duct and  conversation  becoming  the  Gospel. 

With  the  heart  man  believeth  unto  righteous- 
ness ;  and  with  the  mouth  confession  is  made  unto 
salvation.     Rom.  x.  10. 

And  he  took  them  the  same  hour  of  the  night, 
and  washed  their  stripes  ;  and  was  baptized.  Acts 
xvi.  33. 

Bring  forth,  therefore,  fruits  worthy  of  repent- 
ance.    Luke  iii.  8. 

Q.  5.  But  did  not  the  apostles  receive  per- 
sons into  the  Church  by  baptism,  without 
waiting  for  any  evidence  of  the  credibility 
of  their  profession  ? 

A.  All  who  then  joined  the  Church,  did  so 
at  the  risk  of  liberty,  property,  and  life  ;  and 
this  of  itself  was  a  most  satisfactory  evidence 
of  their  sincerity  in  malting  such  profession. 

Q.  6.  Do  the  members  of  the  Church,  after 
their  admission,  continue  subject  to  the  au- 
thority of  the  Rulers  ? 

A.  Yes.     Such  authority  on  the  one  part, 


OP    THE    PRESBYTERIAN    CHURCH.  27 

and  obedience  on  the  other,  are  most  plainly 
sanctioned  by  the  law  of  Christ. 

Do  not  ye  judge  them  that  are  within  1  But 
them  that  are  without,  God  judgeth.  1  Cor.  v. 
12,  13. 

Obey  them  that  have  the  rule  over  you.  Heb. 
xiii.  17. 

Q.  7.  For  what  offences  are  members  liable 
to  trial,  and  Church  censure  ? 

A.  It  would  be  wrong  to  subject  a  member 
to  Church  censure,  or  even  trial,  for  every 
misdemeanour ;  but  they  are  to  be  subjected, 
for, — 

(1.)  Errors  in  doctrine. 

A  man  that  is  an  heretic,  after  the  first  and 
second  admonition,  reject.     Tit.  iii.  10. 

(2.)  Immorality  in  practice. 

Have  no  fellowship  with  the  unfruitful  works  of 
darkness,  but  rather  reprove  them.  Eph.  v.  11. 
See  also,  Rev.  ii.  20. 

(3.)  Despising  the  authority,  or  or- 
der, OR  ordinances  of  the  church. 

Now  we  command  you,  brethren,  in  the  name 
[of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  that  ye  withdraw  your- 
selves from  every  brother  that  walketh  disorderly, 
and  not  after  the  tradition  which  he  received  of  us. 
2  Thess.  iii.  6. 

(4.)  Neglecting  the  public,  domestic, 

OR    SECRET    duties    OF    RELIGION. 

Not  forsakinij  the  assembling  of  ourselves  to- 
gether,  as  the  manner  of  some  is.     Heb.  x.  25. 
Pour  out  thy  fury  upon  the  heathen  that  know 


28  GOVERNMENT    AND    DISCIPLINE 

thee   not,  and   upon   the    families  that  call 

NOT    ON    THY    NAME.       Jer.  X.  25. 

(5.)  Slothful  idleness. 

If  any  provide  not  for  his  own,  and  especially 
for  those  of  his  own  house,  he  hath  denied  the 
faith,  and  is  worse  than  an  infidel.     1  Tim.  v.  8. 

(Finally.)  The  violation  of  any  clear 
Scripture  precept  or  ecclesiastical  or- 
dinance. 

The  law  is  not  made  for  a  righteous  man,  but 
for  the  lawless  and  disobedient,  for  the  ungodly 
and  for  sinners,  for  unholy  and  profane,  &c.,  &c. 
1  Tim.  i.  9. 

Q.  8.  Does  not  Scripture  attach  a  solemn 
importance  to  the  censures  of  the  Church  ? 

A.  Yes.  For  the  sentence,  when  pro- 
nounced according  to  Christ's  law,  is  ratified 
in  heaven  ;  and  if  the  individual  be  wholly 
"cut  off"  from  the  Church,  he  is  dehvered 
up  to  Satan,  the  god  of  this  world,  as  a  sub- 
ject of  his  visible  kingdom. 

Verily,  I  say  unto  you,  whatsoever  ye  shall 
bind  on  earth,  shall  be  bound  in  heaven ;  and 
whatsoever  ye  shall  loose  on  earth,  shall  be  loosed 
in  heaven.     Matt,  xviii.  18. 

To  deliver  such  an  one  unto  Satan.     1  Cor.  v.  5. 

Of  whom  is  Hymeneus  and  Alexander,  whom 
I  have  delivered  unto  Satan,  that  they  may  learn 
not  to  blaspheme.     1  Tim.  i.  20. 

Q.  9.  What  is  the  duty  of  those  who  have 
been  judged  worthy  of  censure  ? 

A.  To  humble  themselves   under  it, — to 


OP    THE    PRESBYTERIAN    CHURCH.         29 

submit  to  it,  to  repent  and  do  their  first 
works. 

Behold  this  self  same  thing,  that  ye  sorrowed 
after  a  godly  sort,  what  careftilness  it  wrought  in 
you,  yea,  what  clearing  of  yourselves,  yea,  what 
indignation,  yea,  what  fear,  yea,  what  vehement 
desire,  yea,  what  zeal,  yea,  what  revenge.  2  Cor. 
vii.  11. 

Submit  yourselves.     Heb.  xiii.  17. 

Remember,  therefore,  from  whence  thou  art 
fallen,  and  repent,  and  do  the  first  works.  Rev. 
ii.  5. 

Q.  10.  Is  it  lawful  ever  to  restoVe  to  the 
communion  of  the  Church  one  who  has  been 
suspended,  or  cut  off? 

A.  Yes,  it  is.  Whenever  sufficient  evi- 
dence has  been  afforded  of  repentance  and 
reformation,  he  may  be  restored. 

Brethren,  if  a  man  be  overtaken  in  a  fault,  ye 
which  are  spiritual  restore  such  an  one,  in  the 
spirit  of  meekness.     Gal.  vi.  1.  , 

Whose  soever  sins  ye  remit,  they  are  remitted 
unto  them.     John  xx.  23. 

Q.  11.  Are  any  censures  to  be  made 
public  ? 

A.  Yes,  such  as  are  occasioned  by  offences 
which  from  their  magnitude  and  publicity, 
are  calculated  to  bring  scandal  on  the  Church. 

Sufficient  to  such  a  man  is  this  punishment, 
which  was  inflicted  of  many.     2  Cor.  ii.  6. 

Them  that  sin  rebuke  before  all,  that  others 
also  may  fear.     1  Tim.  v.  20, 

Q.  12.  Does  any  sentence  of  the  Church 

3* 


30  GOVERNMENT    AND    DISCIPLINE 

exclude  an  individual  from  hearing  the  gospel 
preached  ? 

A.  No.  It  is  to  be  preached  to  the  most 
guilty,  (See  1  Cor.  xiv.  25 ;)  and  it  is  espe- 
cially the  duty  of  such  to  attend  on  the  min- 
istration of  the  Word. 

Q.  13.  Is  injury  done  to  the  people  of  God, 
by  the  neglect  of  discipline  in  the  Church  ? 

A.  Yes.  When  the  Church  is  not  kept  pure, 
godly  persons  will  be  deterred  from  joining  it. 

But  now  I  have  written  unto  you,  not  to  keep 
company,  if  any  man  that  is  called  a  brother  be 
a  fornicator,  or  covetous,  or  an  idolator,  or  a 
railer,  or  a  drunkard,  or  an  extortioner,  with  such 
an  one,  no,  not  to  eat.    1  Cor.  v.  11. 

I  would  not  that  ye  should  have  fellowship  with 
devils.     1  Cor.  x.  20. 

And  those  in  the  Church  who  are,  or  may 
become,  pious,  will  be  obliged  to  separate 
from  it. 

Comfe  out  of  her,  my  people,  that  ye  be  not  par- 
takers of  her  sins,  and  that  ye  receive  not  of  her 
plagues.     Rev.  xviii.  4. 

Q.  14.  Is  injury  done  to  the  sinner  by  such 

neglect  ? 

A.  Yes.  By  it  he  will  be  confirmed  in  his 
carelessness,  self-deception,  and  sin. 

They  have  seduced  my  people,  saying.  Peace; 
and  there  was  no  peace.  With  lies  ye  have  made 
the  heart  of  the  righteous  sad,  whom  I  have  not 
made  sad  ;  and  strengthen  the  hands  of  the 
wicked,  that  he  should  not  return  from  his  wicked 
way,  by  promising  him  life.     Ezek,  xiii.  10,  22. 


OF    THE    PRESBYTERIAN    CHURCH.  31 

Q.  15.  May  not  a  church  so  far  apostatize 
by  the  neglect  of  discipHne,  as  to  cease  to  be 
a  church  of  Christ,  and  become  a  synagogue 
of  Satan  ? 

A.  Yes.     This  has  sometimes  happened. 

I  know  the  blasphemy  of  them  which  say  they 
are  Jews,  and  are  not,  but  are  the  synagogue  of 
Satan.     Rev.  ii.  9. 

Them  of  the  synagogue  of  Satan,  which  say 
they  are  Jews.     Rev.  iii.  9. 

Because  thou  art  lukewarm,  and  neither  cold 
nor  hot,  I  will  spue  thee  out  of  my  mouth.  Rev. 
iii.  16. 

Q.  16.  What  benefits  may  arise  to  the 
offender  from  the  exercise  of  discipline } 

A.  By  this  he  sees  sin  to  be  evil  and 
shameful. 

If  any  man  obey  not  our  word  by  this  epistle, 
note  that  man,  and  have  no  company  with  him, 
that  he  may  be  ashamed.     2  Thess.  iii.  14. 

And  if  he  receive  the  censure  in  a  proper 
spirit,  it  has  a  powerful  tendency  to  humble, 
reclaim,  and  edify  him. 

Now  I  rejoice  not  that  ye  were  made  sorry,  but 
that  ye  sorrowed  to  repentance,  for  godly  sorrow 
worketh  repentance  to  salvation,  not  to  be  re- 
pented of.     2  Cor.  vii.  9,  10. 

Q.  17.  What  benefits  arise  to  the  Church 
from  the  faithful  exercise  of  discipline  ? 

A.  (1.)  Hereby  sinners  are  discouraged 
from  hypocritically  joining  the  Church,  and 
the  leaven  which  might  infect  the  whole 
lump  is  purged  out. 


32  GOVERNMENT    AND    DISCIPLINE 

Purge  out,  therefore,  the  old  leaven,  that  ye 
may  be  a  new  lump.     1  Cor.  v.  7. 

(2.)  The  number  of  her  true  converts  is 
increased. 

As  they  went  through  the  cities,  they  delivered 
them  the  decrees  for  to  keep,  that  were  ordained 
of  the  Apostles  and  Elders,  which  were  at  Jeru- 
salem ;  and  so  were  the  Churches  established  in 
the  faith,  and  increased  in  number  daily.  Acts 
xvi.  4,  5. 

And  great  fear  came  upon  all  the  Church,  and 
upon  as  many  as  heard  these  things.  And  of  the 
rest,  durst  no  man  join  himself  to  them  ;  but  the 
people  magnified  them.  And  believers  were  the 
MORE  ADDED  to  the  Lord,  multitudes  both  of 
men  and  women.     Acts  y.  11,  13,  14. 

(3.)  Her  holiness  is  manifested. 

Take  these  things  hence;  make  not  my  Father's 
house  a  house  of  merchandise.     John  ii.  16. 

(4.)  The  honour  of  her  Head  is  vindicated. 

The  heathen  shall  know  that  I  am  the  Lord, 
saith  the  Lord  God,  when  I  shall  be  sanctified  in 
you  before  their  eyes.     Ezek.  xxxvi.  23. 

(5.)  And  God's  gracious  presence  and  bles- 
sing secured. 

Come  out  from  among  them,  and  be  ye  separate, 
saith  the  Lord,  and  touch  not  the  unclean  thing  ; 
and  I  will  receive  you,  and  be  a  Father  unto  you, 
and  ye  shall  be  my  sons  and  daughters,  saith  the 
Lord  Almighty.     2  Cor.  vi.  17,  18. 

Q.  18.  But  may  not  the  offender,  by  the 
exercise  of  discipline,  be  led  to  forsake  the 


OF  THE  PRESBYTERIAN  CHURCH.    33 

a 

preaching  of  the  Gospel,  and  thus  become 
more  hardened  ? 

A.  As  discipline  is  an  ordinance  of  God, 
we  must  expect  the  neglect  rather  than  the 
exercise^  of  it  to  harden  the  sinner ;  but  if,  in 
his  pride  and  obstinacy,  he  disregard  the  ad- 
vantages which  flow  from  it,  when  received 
in  a  right  spirit,  the  rulers  of  the  Church  are 
not  to  be  deterred  from  their  duty,  any  more 
than  the  minister  of  the  Gospel  from  preach- 
ing, because  many  are  hardened  by  it,  and 
have  their  guilt  and  danger  increased. 

To  the  one  we  are  the  savour  of  death  unto 
death ;  and  to  the  other  the  savour  of  life  unto  life. 
2  Cor.  ii.  15. 

These  be  they  who  separate  themselves,  sensual, 
having  not  the  Spirit.     Jude  19. 

Q.  19.  Are  the  rulers  of  the  Church  deeply 
responsible  for  the  right  exercise  of  disci- 
pline ? 

A.  They  who  hold  office  by  appointment 
from  Christ,  whose  faithfulness  will  be  folio  w- 
edlDy  so  many  and  great  blessings,  whose  neg- 
ligence must  be  the  source  of  such  deep  and 
lasting  injuries  to  the  Church,  dishonour  to 
Christ,  and  evil  to  sinners — should  feel  them- 
selves under  a  most  solemn  responsibility,  in 
this  matter,  and  must  expect  to  be  called  to 
a  most  strict  account,  at  the  day  of  judgment, 
for  the  part  which  they  act,  in  relation  to  it. 

And  when  the  chief  Shepherd  shall  appear,  ye 
shall  receive  a  crown  of  glory  that  fadeth  not 
away.     1  Pet.  v.  4. 

Obey  them  that  have  the  rule  over  you,  and  sub- 


34  GOVERNMENT    AND    DISCIPLINE 

mit  yourselves ;  for  they  watch  for  your  souls,  as 
they  tliot  must  give  account;  that  they  may  do  it 
with  joy  and  not  with  grief.     Heb.  xiii.  17. 


CHAPTER  V. 

THE  VOLUNTARY  AND  LEGAL  MAINTENANCE 
OF  PUBLIC  ORDINANCES. 

Question  1.  Is  it  the  duty  of  Christians  to 
contribute  of  their  substance  to  the  mainten- 
ance of  rehgious  ordinances  ? 

Answer.  It  is  both  their  duty  and  their 
privilege. 

Take  ye  from  among  you  an  offering  unto  the 
Lord ;  whosoever  is  of  a  willing  heart,  let  him 
bring  it,  an  offering  of  the  Lord  ;  gold,  and  silver, 
and  brass.     Exod.  xxxv.  5. 

Let  him  that  is  taught  in  the  word  communicate 
unto  him  that  teacheth  in  all  good  things.  Gal. 
vi.  6.     See  also  1  Cor.  ix.  3 — 15. 

Q.  2.  In  what  spirit  is  such  contribution  to 
be  made  ? 

A.  It  is  to  be  made  freely,  bountifully, 
thankfully,  and  devoutly. 

He  shall  offer  of  his  own  voluntary  will.  Lev. 
i.  3. 

He  which  soweth  sparingly  shall  reap  also  spar- 
ingly ;  and  he  which  soweth  bountifully  shall  reap 
also  bountifully.     2  Cor.  ix.  6,  7. 

I  will  offer  to  thee  the  sacrifice  of  thanksgiving. 


OF    THE    PRESBYTERIAN    CHURCH.  35 

and  will  call  upon  the  name  of  the  Lord.     Psa. 
cxvi.  17. 

Q.  3.  In  circumstances  and  places  where 
the  ordinances  and  ministry  of  the  pure  gos- 
pel are  already  sufficiently  provided  for,  are 
Christians,  for  this  reason,  to  withhold  their 
contributions  ? 

A.  No  :  they  ought,  in  such  case,  to  mul- 
tiply them  in  behalf  of  the  heathen  and  others 
who  have  not  obtained  the  same  advantage : 
and  thus  the  gospel  of  Jesus  Christ  will  be 
extended,  till  all  nations  shall  serve  him. 

Q.  4.  Ought  rulers  and  nations,  as  such,  to 
protect  the  people  in  the  free  and  full  exer- 
cise of  their  religious  privileges  ? 

A.  Yes:  because  rulers  derive  their  au- 
thority from  God,  and  therefore  they  are 
bound  to  use  it  for  his  glory :  Prov.  viii.  15. 
Nations,  also,  receive  from  him  national  bles- 
sings, and  therefore  they  are  bound  to  render 
imto  him  national  service  :  Jer.  xviii.  7,  10. 

Q.  5.  Have  you  any  other  reasons  to  ad- 
duce ? 

A.  Yes.  Because  the  Lord  Jesus  Christ 
is,  as  Mediator,  King  of  kings,  and  therefore 
these,  officially  as  well  as  personally,  are  re- 
quired to  bow  to  his  sceptre,  and  to  maintain 
his  cause.     Rev.  xix.  16.     Psa.  ii. 

2.  Because  the  end  of  civil  government  is, 
not  only  to  repress  what  is  evil,  but  to  cherish 
what  is  good  :  Rom.  xiii.  4. 

3d.  Because  wherever  the  religion  of  Christ, 
especially  in  its  pure  Presbyterian  form,  has 


36  GOVERNMENT    AND    DISCIPLINE 

been  so  maintained,  there  society  has  been 
more  orderly,  virtuous,  and  enlightened,  than 
otherwise. 

Q.  6.  Is  it  proper  or  expedient  for  a  gov- 
ernment to  endow  and  support  any  particu- 
lar form  of  religion  ? 

A.  No.  Experience  has  demonstrated  that 
such  establishments  are  oppressive  to  con- 
science, partial,  liable  to  great  abuse,  injuri- 
ous to  the  spirituality  of  the  Church,  by 
making  it  a  mere  appendage  to  the  state. 


CHAPTER  VI. 

OBJECTION    TO    OTHER    CHURCHES. 

Question  1.  Is  not  the  Presbyterian  Church 
properly  denominated  Protestant  ? 

Answer.  It  is.  Because,  in  common  with 
other  Reformed  Churches,  it  professes  to  ad- 
here to  the  solemn  protest  which  was  taken 
by  the  Reformers  of  the  sixteenth  century, 
against  the  errors  and  corruptions  of  the 
Church  of  Rome. 

Q.  2.  What  are  some  of  those  errors  in 
that  Church,  against  which  the  Reformed 
Churches  protest  ? 

A.  They  protest,  among  many  other  things, 
against  the  doctrine  of  the  Pope's  supremacy. 
Matt,  xxiii.  8,  11.    Eph.  ii.  19,  20.     They 


OF    THE    PRESBYTERIAN    CKURCII.  37 

protest  against  the  doctrine  of  the  infaUibilify 
of  the  Church.  Acts  xvii.  11.  2  Cor.  i.  24. 
Against  the  doctrine  of  transubstantiation, 
and  the  sacrifice  of  the  mass.     Acts  iii.  20, 

21.  Heb.  ix.  24 — 28.  x.  12—14.  Against 
the  doctrine  that  the  good  worlds  of  the  saints 
are  meritorious  in  the  sight  of  God.  Isa. 
Ixiv.  6.  Eph.  ii.  8,  9.  Rom.  xi.  6.  Against 
the  doctrine  of  purgatory,  and  that  prayers 
ought  to  be  offered  for  the  dead.    Luke  xvi. 

22,  23.  xxiii.  43.  2  Cor.  v.  8.  1  John  i.  7. 
Rev.  xiv.  13.  Against  the  doctrine  that 
saints,  images,  and  reUcs,  ought  to  be  wor- 
shipped. Exod.  XX.  4, 5.  Rev.  xix.  10.  xxii. 
S,  9.  Against  the  doctrine,  that  the  Scrip- 
tures ought  not  to  be  read  by  the  laity. 
Deut.  vi.  6,  7.  Matt.  xxii.  29.  John  v.  39. 
Against  the  doctrine,  that  cehbacy,  and  absti- 
nence from  certain  kinds  of  meat,  are  con- 
nected with  exalted  piety,  and  superior  sanc- 
tity of  character.  Lev.  xxi.  10,  13.  1  Cor. 
vh.  2.  1  Tim.  iv.  3.  iii.  2.  1  Cor.  viii.  8. 
The  Presbyterian  Reformed  Churches  bear 
their  testimony  against  these  and  many  other 
errors  of  the  Church  of  Rome,  as  being  anti- 
Christian,  and  destructive  to  the  souls  of  men. 

Q.  3.  In  what  hght  do  Presbyterians  view 
Protestant  Established  Churches,  such  as 
those  of  England  and  Ireland? 

A.  They  regard  them  as  Churches  of 
Christ ;  but,  at  the  same  time,  so  unscriptural 
in  their  constitution  and  administration,  as  to 
oblige  them  to  maintain  a  separate  com- 
munion. 


3S  GOVERNMENT    AND    DISCIPLINE 

Q.  4.  What  is  there  in  the  constitution  and 
administration  of  these  Churches,  to  which 
Presbyterians  object  ? 

A.  1.  They  object  to  the  power  and  au- 
thority, in  spiritual  matters,  which  these 
churches  declare  to  be  vested  in  the  supreme 
magistrate,  whether  male  or  female  :  "  That 
the  king  hath  full  power  and  authority  to 
hear  and  determine  all  manner  of  causes 
ecclesiastical,  and  reform  and  correct  all  vice, 
sins,  errors,  heresies,  whatsoever." 

2.  They  object  to  these  Churches,  that,  ac- 
cording to  their  constitution,  the  Parliament 
of  the  nation,  consisting  of  Episcopalians, 
Presbyterians,  Independents,  Quakers,  Pap- 
ists, and  Infidels,  have  the  power  of  deter- 
mining how  many  prelates,  and  pastors,  they 
shall  have. 

3.  They  object,  that  in  consequence  of  this 
control  and  authority  which  these  Churches 
concede  to  the  civil  government  in  religious 
things,  they  are  rendered  incapable  of  re- 
forming, purifying,  or  extending  themselves, 
or  correcting  any  errors  or  abuses  in  their 
system. 

4.  Holding,  as  Presbyterians  do,  that  Christ 
has  ordained  in  his  word,  all  the  institutions 
which  his  infinite  wisdom  judged  necessary 
for  the  edification  of  his  spiritual  body,  and 
has  taught  the  best  possible  manner  in  which 
they  are  to  be  administered  and  observed, 
they  object  to  the  power  claimed  by  these 
Churches  to  decree  rites  and  ceremonies  in 
the  worship  of  God,  and  to  alter  the  mode 


OF    THE    PRESEYTEKIAN    CHURCH.  39 

in  which  he  has  appointed  his  own  institu- 
tions to  be  observed.  Prov.  xxx.  6.  Rev. 
xxii.  IS. 

Q.  5.  What  objections  have  Presbyterians 
to  the  Episcopal  Church  in  general  ? 

A.  They  cannot  assent  to  such  ceremonies 
as  the  following,  which  this  Church  has  de- 
creed, and  which  have  no  warrant  in  Scrip- 
ture : — The  numerous  festivals  appointed  and 
observed  by  this  Church, — sponsors  in  bap- 
tism,— the  practice  of  sponsors  making  vows 
in  the  name  of  the  child,  and  of  taking  on 
them  obligations  which  cannot  in  the  nature 
of  things  be  fulfilled,  and  which  parents  alone 
can  fulfil, — using  the  sign  of  the  cross  in  bap- 
tism,— confirmation  by  a  prelate, — bowing  at 
the  name  Jesus, — kneeling  at  the  Lord's 
Supper, — the  private  administration  of  the 
Lord's  Supper, — consecration  of  churches, 
burying  grounds,  and  the  sacramental  ele- 
ments,— the  superstitious  use  made  of  the 
bread  and  wine  remaining  after  the  com- 
munion,—  and  the  absolution  of  the  sick. 
Matt.  XV.  9. 

Q.  6.  As  some  of  these  ceremonies  appear 
unimportant  in  themselves,  why  is  the  ob- 
servance of  them  a  ground  of  serious  ob- 
jection ? 

A.  Because  such  observance  encourages 
superstition  and  will-worship ;  is  opposed  to 
the  sufliiciency  of  the  Scriptures,  as  the  only 
rule  of  faith  and  practice ;  and  upholds  the 
unscriptural  and  pernicious  principle,  that 
men  may  innocently  and  profitably  add  to 


40  GOVERNMENT    AND    DISCIPLINE 

the  institutions  of  Christ,  and  the  terms  of 
communion  in  his  Church.     Col.  ii.  20,23. 

Q.  7.  Have  Presbyterians  any  further  ob- 
jections to  the  Episcopal  Church  ? 

A.  Yes.  They  cannot  approve  of  '  The 
Book  of  Common  Prayer,'  considering  that 
the  use  of  it  tends  to  prevent  the  exercise  of 
spiritual  gifts,  and  induce  formality  and  dead- 
ness  in  devotion ;  and  that,  in  its  general 
form  and  construction,  it  is  imperfect  and  er- 
roneous, containing  useless  repetitions, — un- 
suitable petitions, — lessons  from  the  Apo- 
crypha,— a  confused  and  irregular  arrange- 
ment of  the  prayers, — and  bears  so  general  a 
resemblance  to  the  mass-book,  from  which 
many  of  its  prayers  are  taken. 

They  object  to  the  exercise  of  Church  gov- 
ernment, and  the  power  of  ordination  being 
vested  exclusively  in  prelates.     1  Tim.  iv.  14. 

They  cannot  admit  the  doctrine,  distinctly 
taught  in  the  Prayer  Book,  that  by  water- 
baptism  an  infant  is  '  regenerated,'  '  made  a 
member  of  Christ,'  and  '  the  child  of  God.' 
Jas.  i.  IS;  1  Pet.  i.  23. 

They  lament  the  extreme  laxity  of  these 
churches,  in  reference  to  discipline. 

Q.  8.  In  what  light  do  Presbyterians  view 
those  Churches  called  Independent,  or  Con- 
gregational? 

A.  They  regard  all  of  them  who  profess 
what  are  termed  the  doctrines  of  grace,  as 
being  also  churches  of  Christ ;  but  object  to 
their  peculiar  constitution, — the  principle  of 
which  is,  that   particular  congregations   are 


OF    THE    PRESBYTERIAN    CHURCH.  41 

Churches  independent  of  each  other,  and  not 
subordinate  to  superior  courts,  and  that  all 
the  members  of  the  Church  have  authority 
to  exercise  government,  and  to  vote  in  every 
case  of  disciphne  on  which  the  Church  is 
called  to  decide. 

Q.  9.  Why  do  they  object  to  this  system 
of  Church  government  ? 

A.  (1.)  It  is  inconsistent  with  the  oneness  of 
the  Church,  as  founded  on  the  oneness  of  her 
Divine  Head, — her  faith, — her  baptism,  and 
the  whole  system  of  her  laws  and  ordinances, 
and  with  the  description  given  of  her  in  Scrip- 
ture, by  allusion  to  the  human  body,  1  Cor. 
xii.  12,  26,  27  ;  to  a  kingdom,  John  xviii.  36  ; 
and  to  an  army  under  one  commander,  Rev. 
XX.  9. 

(2.)  It  is  opposed  to  the  constitution  of  the 
primitive  Church.  (See  chapter  I,  question 
3,  section  4.) 

(3.)  It  confounds  the  distinction  plainly  ex- 
pressed in  Scripture,  between  the  rulers  of 
the  Church,  and  those  who  are  ruled.  Heb. 
xiii.  17,  24. 

(4.)  Because  of  the  disadvantages  to  which 
it  is  liable. 

Firsts  From  the  undue  control  which 
people  have  it  in  their  power  to  exercise  over 
their  pastor.  Should  he,  by  faithfully  preach- 
ing some  truth  dishked  by  them,  or  by  re- 
proving some  sin  to  which  they  were  ad- 
dicted, give  any  offence,  or  should  the  people 

at  any  time  take  a  fancy  for  another  preacher, 

4  * 


42  GOVERNMENT    AND    DISCIPLINE 

he  is  liable  at  once  to  be  expelled  from  his 
oifice. 

Second,  From  the  want  of  any  court  of 
review  to  which  an  individual  might  appeal, 
in  case  of  being  aggrieved  in  judgment, 
through  prejudice  or  party  feeling,  or  impro- 
per influence  in  the  congregation  of  which 
he  is  pastor  or  member,  Acts  xv.  2. 

Thwd,  From  the  inability  of  separate  con- 
gregations to  accomphsh  one  of  the  most  im- 
portant purposes  for  which  the  Church  has 
been  established  on  earth, — that  is,  to  extend 
the  kingdom  of  Christ.  Independents,  when 
making  eff'orts  to  propagate  the  gospel,  are 
obhged  to  act,  not  in  the  character  of  a 
Church,  but  as  members  of  promiscuous  so- 
cieties. 


CONCLUSION. 

Q.  10.  What  then  are  the  general  conside- 
rations which  should  attach  Presbyterians 
with  zealous  affection  to  their  own  church  ? 

A.  Its  Scripture  character,  its  freedom  from 
those  many  and  weighty  objections  which  lie 
against  other  systems,  and  the  religious  pri- 
vileges and  advantages  which  its  members 
enjoy. 

Q.  11.  What  are  these  privileges  and  ad- 
vantages? 

A.  Having  the  right  of  choosing  their 
own  pastors  and  rulers, — freedom  from  des- 
potic power  on  the  one  liand,  and  anarchy 


OF    THE    PRESBYTERIAN    CHURCH.         43 

on  the  other,  in  the  government  of  their 
Church — the  means  and  opportunities  of 
bringing  before  the  rulers  of  the  church,  for 
mvestigation  and  judgment,  unfaithfuhiess  in 
Ministers  and  Elders,  offences  of  Church 
members,  and  errors  in  doctrine, — the  privi- 
lege and  power  of  appeal  from  one  Church 
Court  to  another,  when  their  rights  as  citizens 
of  Zion  are  injured  or  assailed  ;  and  such  an 
ecclesiastical  constitution  and  arrangement  of 
their  church,  that  it  contains  within  itself  the 
capacity  of  reforming  abuses  and  errors,  and 
has  the  best  machinery  for  extending  the 
boundaries  of  the  Redeemer's  kingdom,  and 
perfecting  the  body  of  Christ. 

Q.  12.  How  should  Presbyterians  employ 
and  improve  these  privileges  ? 

A.  They  should  use  them  thankfully  and 
faithfully  for  their  own  edification, — the 
bringing  other  churches  to  conformity  to  the 
laws  of  Christ's  house,  and  for  prosecuting 
Missionary  labours  in  their  own  land,  and 
throughout  the  world,  until  all  the  ends  of 
the  earth  shall  see  the  salvation  of  God. 


THE     END. 


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